Compare Mercedes Panel beating job quotes from specialist garages

In 1886, Karl Benz - the founder of Mercedes Benz - introduced what is often considered the first petrol-powered car to the world. The Benz Patent Motor Car was born, and with it began a legacy that continues today.

Style, luxury and innovation are the driving forces behind Mercedes. Not only was it one of the first car manufacturers to put brakes and suspension on all four wheels, but it was also the first to introduce safety crumple zones.

Cars by Mercedes have appeared on the big screen numerous times, from the S-Class used by Jason Statham in The Transporter to escape a gunfight to the 1969 280 SE Convertible driven by Hugh Grant in Bridget Jones's Diary.

See how Mercedes' maintenance costs compare with BMW's and Audi's here.

Car panel beating is a traditional method of repairing panels using tools such as specialised hammers, dollies (metal forming tools), tin snips and body files. It involves removing, restoring and replacing damaged panels, spray painting, colour matching, chassis alignment and refitting hardware.

The main benefit of hiring a panel beater is that they are highly skilled and experienced and will do an excellent job restoring the area to its non-damaged state. Panel beating is usually cheaper than replacing the damaged panel with a new one, and good panel beaters can also add new features to panels upon request.

You shouldn't attempt to fix car panel damage because it's unlikely you'll have the skills to do a safe job, especially since a bad repair could lead to more problems and stress fractures. Instead, it's best to find expert local panel beaters, giving you peace of mind that the repair is safe.

Check out this guide to learn about different types of bodywork repairs.